Development of Chemical Accident Classification Codes and Tool for Management in Process Industries

In this study, domestic and international chemical accident databases are analyzed, and a chemical accident reporting system is developed using chemical accident classification codes. These codes are revised by adopting the data collected in 2115 cases of chemical accidents that occurred in S. Korea over the last 20 years. The revised classification codes are composed of 12 upper, 64 middle, and 276 lower classes. The developed database is composed of data input, data list, and data search modules as well as statistic and analysis modules. Module operations help obtain information on relationships between accident data attributes that are not apparent, in addition to simple statistical results. The chemical accident tracking system is available on the Internet, and the data are treated using an on-line analytical system. The records are statistically analyzed to identify type of accidents that occurs frequently in Korean chemical companies, as well as the accident data and materials involved. We expect the results of this study to be useful in reporting for developing a management of system for prevention of chemical accidents, and improve the manageability of the designed system.